IND vs NZ: Three player battles to watch out for in ODIs

India is all set for their next assignment at home against New Zealand. The Kiwis will tour India for a complete white-ball series that begins on the 18th of January. The ODI series is first in the line, and the teams will look to do well keeping the ODI World Cup in mind. The two teams have produced an incredible fight whenever the two have met. The same can be expected this time as well. In this article, we will look at some of the player battles to watch out for in the ODI leg of the series.

#1 Devon Conway vs Yuzvendra Chahal

Devon Conway-Yuzvendra Chahal (Source: Twitter)

In very little time in his international career, Devon Conway has proven his mantle by playing at the top of the order. He has been a reliable run-scorer for the Black Caps across all formats, but he has excelled in conditions that favour fast bowlers.

It will be interesting to see how he changes his approach in the turning conditions of India. However, veteran Indian spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, will not make it easy for him to get runs against him. A big turner of the ball, Chahal will be a big challenge for Conway to tackle.

#2 Shreyas Iyer vs Lockie Ferguson

Shreyas Iyer-Lockie Ferguson (Source: Twitter)

India's emerging star Shreyas Iyer had a fantastic run in the ODI format in 2022. He will be hoping to continue his excellent run this year as well. However, he will have a significant challenge in facing the quality bowlers of New Zealand early in the year.

His vulnerability against short deliveries is known to all, and pacer Lockie Ferguson can easily exploit that. Ferguson can give Iyer a tough time in the middle with his extra pace and reasonable control over the ball.

#3 Tom Latham and Shardul Thakur

Tom Latham-Shardul Thakur (Source: Twitter)

Time and again, Tom Latham, the stand-in captain for the series, has proved why he is regarded as one of the best players in the world. He is always keen on building partnerships and taking the game deep. This skill has reaped him huge rewards over time.

On the other hand, India's Shardul Thakur has established a name that he breaks settled partnerships. The 31-year-old can pose a threat to the left-handed batter's style of play in the upcoming ODI series.